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Defining Destiny #2
Accepting Fate
From New York Times bestselling author, Deanna Chase comes the second book in the Destiny series.
When two souls are fated...
A year ago, Jax Russo left school to escape to her safe haven, her hometown of Mendocino, CA. After overcoming depression and healing old wounds, she’s finally ready to move on. But when her brother’s arrested for a shocking crime, she finds herself caught between her family and her brother’s accuser—the man she’s been in love with since she was fifteen years old.
Firefighter Derek Alexander never wanted to be a hero. He does his job for one reason and one reason only—to make up for that terrible night nine years ago. His demons haunt him, but so do dreams of Jax, the girl he knows he’s fated to be with. But in a world of magical soul mates, sometimes even love and forgiveness isn’t enough.
When two souls are fated...
A year ago, Jax Russo left school to escape to her safe haven, her hometown of Mendocino, CA. After overcoming depression and healing old wounds, she’s finally ready to move on. But when her brother’s arrested for a shocking crime, she finds herself caught between her family and her brother’s accuser—the man she’s been in love with since she was fifteen years old.
Firefighter Derek Alexander never wanted to be a hero. He does his job for one reason and one reason only—to make up for that terrible night nine years ago. His demons haunt him, but so do dreams of Jax, the girl he knows he’s fated to be with. But in a world of magical soul mates, sometimes even love and forgiveness isn’t enough.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2014
70 people are currently reading
581 people want to read
About the author
Deanna Chase
134 books1,700 followersDeanna is a native Californian, transplanted to the slower paced lifestyle of southeastern Louisiana. When she isn't writing, she is often goofing off with her husband in New Orleans, playing with her two shih tzu dogs, making glass beads, or out hocking her wares at various bead shows across the country. For more information and updates on newest releases visit her blog at www.deannachase.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 5, 2016
For reasons unknown, Jax Russo has felt that her onetime crush and friend Firefighter Derek Alexander has kept her at a distance. Jax has tried to move past the unease of not having who she wants, but no one measures up and it is not like men are knocking on the doors.
Derek know Jax is his one true mate, but he can't have her. With already a loss Derek still struggles with dealing with, he doesn't feel he has it in him to lose someone else, keeping Jax at a safe distance. When a moment together changes everything, Jax finds herself torn between her family and her new life with Derek.
Riveting story. You never doubt the feelings both Jax and Derek have for one another. The story is filled with intriguing characters and really felt for Jax and her struggles. Look forward to more in this series.
Derek know Jax is his one true mate, but he can't have her. With already a loss Derek still struggles with dealing with, he doesn't feel he has it in him to lose someone else, keeping Jax at a safe distance. When a moment together changes everything, Jax finds herself torn between her family and her new life with Derek.
Riveting story. You never doubt the feelings both Jax and Derek have for one another. The story is filled with intriguing characters and really felt for Jax and her struggles. Look forward to more in this series.
December 11, 2014
Accepting Fate by Deanna Chase is a 2014 Bayou Moon Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“When the light burns out,
I search for the hope within the shadows.
Even when I know I'm all alone,
Your spirit's there to guide me home.”
This is the second novel in the Destiny series and is centered around Jax and Derek. As you may recall this series is set in an alternate reality where everyone has one true soul mate. This soul mate is not always the person you fall in love with however, but in most cases soul mates build a life together. This is what Derek wants to avoid, despite the fact he is pretty sure his family friend and the girl he as been in love with forever, Jax, is his soul mate.
Sadly, he and Jax share an awful tragedy and as a result Derek as shut her out of his life. But, the pull toward Jax is becoming stronger.
For Jax, she has always loved Derek but he will not let her get close to him. She knows their shared loss and pain is part of it, but she has such low confidence and shyness, she believes Derek doesn't find her attractive. Nothing could be further from the truth.. but the reasons Derek tries to keep their relationship platonic has more to do with own personal issues.
This story deals with real life issues such as terrible loss, addictions and the affect that has on one's family and friends. Derek's reaction to dealing with his family's issues are in stark contrast to Jax and her way of handling things. Thankfully, Derek learns to take a page from Jax's book when things go very awry for her family and she needs a strong person to lean on. But, what about the soul mate status Derek is determined to shun?
This book felt a little more serious than the first one to me. I liked the more mature themes and the characters developing into true adults who learn to face their personal demons while helping their loved ones cope with theirs. I loved the ending and of course the HEA!!
“When the light burns out,
I search for the hope within the shadows.
Even when I know I'm all alone,
Your spirit's there to guide me home.”
This is the second novel in the Destiny series and is centered around Jax and Derek. As you may recall this series is set in an alternate reality where everyone has one true soul mate. This soul mate is not always the person you fall in love with however, but in most cases soul mates build a life together. This is what Derek wants to avoid, despite the fact he is pretty sure his family friend and the girl he as been in love with forever, Jax, is his soul mate.
Sadly, he and Jax share an awful tragedy and as a result Derek as shut her out of his life. But, the pull toward Jax is becoming stronger.
For Jax, she has always loved Derek but he will not let her get close to him. She knows their shared loss and pain is part of it, but she has such low confidence and shyness, she believes Derek doesn't find her attractive. Nothing could be further from the truth.. but the reasons Derek tries to keep their relationship platonic has more to do with own personal issues.
This story deals with real life issues such as terrible loss, addictions and the affect that has on one's family and friends. Derek's reaction to dealing with his family's issues are in stark contrast to Jax and her way of handling things. Thankfully, Derek learns to take a page from Jax's book when things go very awry for her family and she needs a strong person to lean on. But, what about the soul mate status Derek is determined to shun?
This book felt a little more serious than the first one to me. I liked the more mature themes and the characters developing into true adults who learn to face their personal demons while helping their loved ones cope with theirs. I loved the ending and of course the HEA!!
November 19, 2014
When it comes to what Jax wants that boy is a sucker for her demands, "keep going." The car slows slightly as he downshifts. "Derek," I say, my voice low and throaty, "please don't take me home. Not right now." He makes a strangled noise in his throat, but the car speeds up." Jax knows how to work her man raw, "what was that about torture?" She grins and goes to work on the button of my jeans as she slides her palm over my bulge." There's nothing more sexier than a man watching his woman without her noticing, "oh!" I startle as I turn and find Derek leaning against the entryway, wearing only his boxer briefs. His hair mussed, and a sexy amused smile plays on his lips. "I didn't hear you." I enjoyed this book I liked it a lot.
November 27, 2014
I thought this book had a lot of potential. The backstory between Jax and Derek had a lot of room to be really emotional and deep, but I just don't think the book lived up to it. Though technically the backstory was strong, I just didn't feel it. There weren't enough flashbacks or recollections of their time together when they were children, and I just didn't quite feel the connection between them.
I also felt the book was hindered by the plot. It takes a very long time to get started, and an event that is mentioned in the blurb (the arrest of Jax's brother) happens about halfway into the book, and this is really the beginning of anything that resembles a plot. I felt that it just wasn't well balanced. The second half should've been longer and given more weight - the problems Jax's brother had were solved much too quickly and easily.
I just felt that the book could've been further developed and extended, and this could've given it a lot more depth and emotional value.
I wasn't sure about the sort-of supernatural element - I thought it was unnecessary to the book, really.
Despite these problems, I did enjoy this novel. Jax and Derek were good characters and I liked reading about them. I finished the novel in one sitting and it was really cute and romantic at times.
I also felt the book was hindered by the plot. It takes a very long time to get started, and an event that is mentioned in the blurb (the arrest of Jax's brother) happens about halfway into the book, and this is really the beginning of anything that resembles a plot. I felt that it just wasn't well balanced. The second half should've been longer and given more weight - the problems Jax's brother had were solved much too quickly and easily.
I just felt that the book could've been further developed and extended, and this could've given it a lot more depth and emotional value.
I wasn't sure about the sort-of supernatural element - I thought it was unnecessary to the book, really.
Despite these problems, I did enjoy this novel. Jax and Derek were good characters and I liked reading about them. I finished the novel in one sitting and it was really cute and romantic at times.
May 1, 2015
This is the second novel in the Destiny series by Deanna Chase, I loved it as much as the first! This series is about more than finding true love and soul mates... In the case of this book, it is about the affects on family and friends when faced with addiction, loss of a loved one, and redemption. This is a little more serious and somber than the first in the series due to the real life issues it dealt with. I think Deanna Chase did a remarkable job of finding a balance between the serious and light-hearted in this story. I can't wait to read more in this series!
September 14, 2015
This one was a shorter read but still a great read I loved Jax in the first book and she didn't disappoint in her story
May 23, 2016
It's a 3 1/2. Good story but I wanted more from it.
September 25, 2018
Ahhh...
This whole series was amazing!! This is the way love should be. Two people coming together no matter what odds are against them. Having such a wonderful connection the entire world can see it on your faces.
This whole series was amazing!! This is the way love should be. Two people coming together no matter what odds are against them. Having such a wonderful connection the entire world can see it on your faces.
July 26, 2020
The Defining destiny series is a departure of genre for Deanna Chase. I enjoyed the characters and applauded her ability to flex her creative juices. While I di enjoy the series, I honestly have to say that I like her paranormal stories a tad better.
Well worth the read of both books.
Well worth the read of both books.
January 3, 2025
Amazing
I couldn't put these books down. I cried and laughed. Can't wait for more. I love this author. Her books are hard to put down.
I couldn't put these books down. I cried and laughed. Can't wait for more. I love this author. Her books are hard to put down.
September 8, 2025
Another cute soul mate book. The story is interesting, romantic, fun, & light reading. Most of the characters were likeable.
September 6, 2017
A soulmate story with a twist
I love soulmate stories. Love them! So naturally I went for this when it came across my recommended reads. First off, this is the second book in the series. But you don't need to read the first to know what's going on... A necessity and something many authors forget.
Second the book grabs you from the first line and doesn't let go. Jax and Derek were real to me. I understood their motivations even if I still wanted to yell at them for being idiots.
Third I loved how a woman's sexuality wasn't a bad thing. There was some jealousy that could be interpreted as slutshaming but the character in question was not seen as bad. Honestly I wanted more of her and would love to read her story.
Fourth can we get a shout out for treating mental illness in a positive and meaningful manner? Because dude, it was. Needing to see a therapist or asking for help wasn't demonized. So good to see.
Finally, I adored the soulmate twist and that personal choice wasn't taken out of the equation. It was a unique take on it and I love it.
In all, I really loved this book and will likely be checking out more from ms. Chase in the future.
I love soulmate stories. Love them! So naturally I went for this when it came across my recommended reads. First off, this is the second book in the series. But you don't need to read the first to know what's going on... A necessity and something many authors forget.
Second the book grabs you from the first line and doesn't let go. Jax and Derek were real to me. I understood their motivations even if I still wanted to yell at them for being idiots.
Third I loved how a woman's sexuality wasn't a bad thing. There was some jealousy that could be interpreted as slutshaming but the character in question was not seen as bad. Honestly I wanted more of her and would love to read her story.
Fourth can we get a shout out for treating mental illness in a positive and meaningful manner? Because dude, it was. Needing to see a therapist or asking for help wasn't demonized. So good to see.
Finally, I adored the soulmate twist and that personal choice wasn't taken out of the equation. It was a unique take on it and I love it.
In all, I really loved this book and will likely be checking out more from ms. Chase in the future.
January 23, 2017
I didn't have very high hopes for Accepting Fate. I figured it would just be the usual hum-drum romance, but I am glad to be wrong! It is your typical romance, but it is extremely cute! I really enjoyed the characters, and absolutely loved how Chase switched back and forth between Jax and Derek. Not to mention, Chase can write one gorgeous character...Derek (sigh).
Both Jax and Derek have been through a lot in their lives. They still have nightmares and it is a constant struggle for them to try to be upbeat and get through their lives. This struggle is something that they bond over, and they come to realize that the other is the only person that truly understands them and what they are going through. It is extremely sweet to see how much they support for and care for each other.
Not only is this a book about sweet romance, but there is a bit of a paranormal twist. In this world, soul mates truly do exist, which was interesting. The one thing that I truly liked was that a soul mate does exist, but that does not mean they are the best person for you. I really liked the idea that you had the ability to choose, and it wasn't like some ingrained connection (insta-love). It was truly a great book, and I hope that Chase continues on with the series!
Both Jax and Derek have been through a lot in their lives. They still have nightmares and it is a constant struggle for them to try to be upbeat and get through their lives. This struggle is something that they bond over, and they come to realize that the other is the only person that truly understands them and what they are going through. It is extremely sweet to see how much they support for and care for each other.
Not only is this a book about sweet romance, but there is a bit of a paranormal twist. In this world, soul mates truly do exist, which was interesting. The one thing that I truly liked was that a soul mate does exist, but that does not mean they are the best person for you. I really liked the idea that you had the ability to choose, and it wasn't like some ingrained connection (insta-love). It was truly a great book, and I hope that Chase continues on with the series!
February 2, 2015
So you meet Jax in the book Defining Destiny as Lucy's and Seth's best friend. Now we get her story with Derek. Somehow this book has a bit of everything you would want in a romance. We have two people who really want each other and you can tell that from the start. There is sexual tension, heated scenes (either emotional or sexual), and banter between the two main characters. Well with Jax there really is banter with most people. She tries so hard at everything and is a person that can be counted on. You would root for her to finally be with someone that will be there for her no matter what.
I love how we get to see for Jax and Derek's point of views. They already have a history that we find out about. Some stuff goes down with Marty(Jax's older brother) and Derek but that doesn't hurt their budding relationship, for which I was glad. I read this in one setting because I wanted to know what was going to happen now next. I am glad I did. The ending was the best part for me next was finding their soul mate gift. You will have to read it to find out. Trust me you will enjoy it.
I love how we get to see for Jax and Derek's point of views. They already have a history that we find out about. Some stuff goes down with Marty(Jax's older brother) and Derek but that doesn't hurt their budding relationship, for which I was glad. I read this in one setting because I wanted to know what was going to happen now next. I am glad I did. The ending was the best part for me next was finding their soul mate gift. You will have to read it to find out. Trust me you will enjoy it.
June 2, 2015
I love all of Deanna Chase's books. This series is different from her other ones, but it is just as wonderful as the others. It has just the slight touch of magic, and it is done so well. I find the soulmate concept in this book very interesting. A person's soulmate could be the perfect person for you, or the worst. The bond creates a magical connection between the two people, and helps them create something that will have an effect on the person meant to have it. Some of my favorite parts in the book are people realizing they have a connection to a certain piece of work. Jax and Derek have a very bumpy past. I thought it was great to see the story from both of their perspectives. Their lives are very different when they are apart than when they are together. Seeing that difference makes for more emotional moments. Overall, I thought this book, and Jax and Derek, were fabulous. I felt like the story was complete, and moving. There was humor, and at other times, my heart was breaking. It was a wonderful roller coaster watching Jax and Derek try to fight the connection between them.
January 7, 2015
Accepting Fate is the first novel by Deanna Chase for me to read. I found it to be a light paranormal story that was both dramatic and romantic. The background between Jan and Derek is quite interesting. I would like to have known even more about that time.
It has somewhat of a slow start but once about one third or so into the book the plot flows smoother and faster. I enjoyed this later part much more. The family drama involving Jax provided the needed tension and conflict that I enjoy in a good story. Also, I really like the alternating point of view between Derek and Jax. It helped me to feel connected to both of these main characters.
Overall, I found this an intriguing story with a satisfying HEA for Derek and Jax. I will be looking for more by this author to read.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
It has somewhat of a slow start but once about one third or so into the book the plot flows smoother and faster. I enjoyed this later part much more. The family drama involving Jax provided the needed tension and conflict that I enjoy in a good story. Also, I really like the alternating point of view between Derek and Jax. It helped me to feel connected to both of these main characters.
Overall, I found this an intriguing story with a satisfying HEA for Derek and Jax. I will be looking for more by this author to read.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
July 2, 2016
I spent most of this book wishing I'd read the first one, Defining Destiny. So after I finished Accepting Fate, I bought Defining Destiny. Then I went on GoodReads and discovered I'd apparently read Defining Destiny back in 2014, when I got a copy from Netgalley. I still don't remember it, but apparently I liked it.
-_-
Accepting Fate suffers from the same problem. I am nuts for the concept, but the book didn't wow me. In my review, I referenced how the plot of Defining Destiny was operating on two levels, and that isn't happening in Accepting Fate. It's really just the story of two people who are meant to be and how they find their way back to each other. Soulmates and shared creative talent aside, that's a pretty basic romance plot.
So this is either a skip or a 99 cent or less read, depending on your genre preferences.
-_-
Accepting Fate suffers from the same problem. I am nuts for the concept, but the book didn't wow me. In my review, I referenced how the plot of Defining Destiny was operating on two levels, and that isn't happening in Accepting Fate. It's really just the story of two people who are meant to be and how they find their way back to each other. Soulmates and shared creative talent aside, that's a pretty basic romance plot.
So this is either a skip or a 99 cent or less read, depending on your genre preferences.
January 11, 2015
Book hangover inducing!
I've just finished Accepting Fate and I miss the characters already. I wish there were already more books in this series for me to read! It was tragic, frustrating, heartwarming, and uplifting. I love Deanna Chase's writing and just can't get enough!
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good love story.
I've just finished Accepting Fate and I miss the characters already. I wish there were already more books in this series for me to read! It was tragic, frustrating, heartwarming, and uplifting. I love Deanna Chase's writing and just can't get enough!
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good love story.
March 14, 2015
Deanna Chase has done it yet again. It seems like every book she comes out with is better than the last. I loved Jax in Defining Destiny and she is amazing in this. I love how in this series you get both perspectives of the male and female lead characters. Its great to actually understand what is going through both sides of the relationship. Can't wait to read the next book.
January 25, 2015
I don't know.
I still love the universe as I did in the first book. But the characters' reactions are utterly ridiculous. Even more than in the previous book. In a way it was cute. However, I mostly felt like saying "Really ?"
I still love the universe as I did in the first book. But the characters' reactions are utterly ridiculous. Even more than in the previous book. In a way it was cute. However, I mostly felt like saying "Really ?"
February 1, 2015
I absolutely adored Accepting Fate. Jax is a crazy bad-ass with a tender side only a few know about. Deanna is amazing how she can bring these characters to life! I'm so anxious for the next book that I'm about to bite my nails off : )
March 27, 2016
Okay read
For some reason, I don't think this book was up to Ms. Chases usual good standards. There were so many places she could have made this into a great book. Instead, it's pretty bland.
For some reason, I don't think this book was up to Ms. Chases usual good standards. There were so many places she could have made this into a great book. Instead, it's pretty bland.
March 31, 2016
Loved this book, amazing how your crush from younger years always has a way of making things right. Wanted to cry many times while reading this book, loved how even when things get rough people stick together.
June 1, 2016
Deanna Chase writes books that I can't put down. Fun, happy, romantic beach read. I always like her characters and would like them as friends.
This seems to be the first book in an entirely new series.
This seems to be the first book in an entirely new series.
February 18, 2015
I enjoyed this story just as much as the first story. Interesting alternate world. I love that Jax fell in love before knowing he was her soulmate .makes the love stronger.
February 16, 2015
cuando no te toca, ni aunque te pongas. y cuando te toca ni aunque te quites....
genial, momentos hermosos y bellos momentos aun en tiempos o circunstancias adversas
genial, momentos hermosos y bellos momentos aun en tiempos o circunstancias adversas
April 26, 2015
Fate
I can see early set this all up for these two. She is still there with them. And is guided them back to each other. A amazing story. Loved it.
I can see early set this all up for these two. She is still there with them. And is guided them back to each other. A amazing story. Loved it.
March 8, 2016
Great love story
Deanna Chase has written another great book with this offering in the Destiny series. Can't wait to read the next one, as well as try some of her other books.
Deanna Chase has written another great book with this offering in the Destiny series. Can't wait to read the next one, as well as try some of her other books.
own-to-read
March 12, 2016Whoo Hoo! Is this really set in Mendo?! Hometown Love!
April 20, 2016
I really enjoyed this story between Ajax and Derek.
Easy to read and enjoyable
Easy to read and enjoyable
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews